Difference Between Green Onions & Chives

Unlike chives, green onions form small white bulbs.

Both chives and green onions belong to the Alliaceae, or onion family. While the plants look similar, their differences result in different culinary uses when cooking. While you can substitute one for the other, substitutions result in a difference in both the flavor and texture of the finished dish.

Growth Differences

Green onions grow from the same bulbs that regular onions do, but they are harvested for their foliage while the bulb is still small and undeveloped. While chives are a member of the onion family, they do not produce a bulb and grow more as a grass-like foliage. Green onions are grown as an annual plant, as they are completely dug up during harvest, while chives are grown as a perennial herb since the roots aren't disturbed when they are harvested.

Cultural Differences

Chives grow best during the warm days of spring and summer. Green onions prefer the cooler weather of spring and early summer, as hot temperatures cause the plants to go to seed. Both plants grow well in full sun but can tolerate some afternoon shade. Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil is also required for both chives and green onions to grow well.

Culinary Differences

The foliage of both chives and green onions is edible, but green onions are also harvested for their small bulbs. Dig up the entire green onion plant and trim of the roots, leaving the bulb and foliage intact for culinary use. Harvest chives by snipping off the foliage near the soil level. The roots are left in the soil to grow new foliage which can be harvested at a later time. The flowers on chive plants are also edible raw. Both plants are usually sliced and used as an herb in both cooked and raw dishes.

Flavor Differences

As both plants belong to the onion family, they both have a mild onion-like flavor. The flavor of green onions is stronger than that of chives. Garlic chives have the mild onion flavor of regular chive varieties, but with a hint of garlic.

References

• University of California Extension: Green Onion Production in California
• University of Minnesota Extension: Chives